The Federal Court System
an explanation in parts
DISTRICT COURTS
The lowest level of district courts, this is where cases are heard for the first time, because of original jurisdiction, and where trials are held and lawsuits begin. Each district court has a magistrate judge, who decide whether or not cases go to trial based on preliminary evidence. All states have one or more of these courts, which hear both civil and criminal cases, with 94 total nationwide. After the final decision, if a party is unhappy, they may appeal to an appellate court.
APPEALS COURTS
Next in the chain of authority, appeals courts have appellate jurisdiction which allows them to hear cases appealed from lower courts. The 12 appeals courts of the U.S. preside over regions called circuits. The decisions appeals courts make must be backed with an opinion written by an appellate judge that explains the courts thinking. The decision sets a precedent, a standard, for other courts to follow. The Federal Circuit is presided over by the U.S. Court of Appeals, which doesn't hold trials but instead reviews case records and upholds or reverses the decision, or sends it back to lower courts, which is a remand.
POSITIONS & APPOINTMENTS
U.S. ATTORNEYS
One for each federal judicial district, U.S. attorneys prosecute people who have broken federal laws and represent the U.S. in civil cases involving the government.
U.S. MARSHALS
Responsible for apprehending fugitives, protecting federal judiciaries and witnesses and more, U.S. Marshals are between ages 21 and 36, in top physical condition, and undergo an intense training session before appointment.
PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTMENTS
The President has the authority to appoint all federal judges, with Senate approval of course. The judges, who serve for life, are a way for the President to impact the country after their term is up, and are only removed by impeachment.